KINESIS
KINESIS Freestyle2 USB-A Ergonomic Keyboard w/ VIP3 Lifters for PC (9" Separation) (KB820PB-US)
Bottom line: The KINESIS Freestyle2 USB-A Ergonomic Keyboard w/ VIP3 Lifters for PC: Key modules separate up to 9 inches and rotate to match your shoulder width; main trade-off: membrane switches, not mechanical, so no swappable or clicky switch options.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Key modules separate up to 9 inches and rotate to match your shoulder width
- ✓ VIP3 tenting ships pre-installed at 5, 10, or 15 degrees of lateral tilt
- ✓ Cushioned palm supports mounted out of the box, plus adhesive palm pads
- ✓ Low-force membrane switches with tactile feedback to cut finger fatigue
- ✓ Plug-and-play USB-A, no drivers or software; standard Windows layout
Cons
- ✗ Membrane switches, not mechanical, so no swappable or clicky switch options
- ✗ Wired USB-A only; no Bluetooth or wireless receiver in this model
- ✗ Split halves plus tenting take up far more desk width than one board
- ✗ Windows layout (KB820PB-US) rather than a Mac-specific key legend set
Manufacturer description
The KINESIS Freestyle2 (KB820PB-US) is a split ergonomic keyboard built for typists who want to set their own hand position instead of accepting a fixed one. The two key modules separate up to 9 inches and rotate independently, letting you square your shoulders and keep your forearms in line with your wrists. This PC model ships with the VIP3 tenting accessory pre-installed, so you can lock in 5, 10, or 15 degrees of lateral tilt out of the box, with cushioned palm supports already mounted. Underneath is a custom low-force membrane switch with tactile feedback, chosen to cut finger fatigue…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored KINESIS Freestyle2 USB-A Ergonomic Keyboard w/ VIP3 Lifters for PC using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the gaming peripherals category. KINESIS's gaming peripherals lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for gaming peripherals of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart can the two halves actually go?
Up to 9 inches of separation. The included detachable pivot tether sets the splay angle, and the modules also rotate so you can angle each half independently.
Does the tenting accessory come with it, or is it sold separately?
The VIP3 tenting accessory is pre-assembled onto this KB820 model, along with the palm supports. It gives 5, 10, or 15 degrees of tenting.
Are the switches mechanical?
No. The Freestyle2 uses a custom membrane key switch with low activation force and tactile feedback, designed to reduce finger fatigue, impact, and strain rather than to feel like a mechanical board.
Do I need to install software or drivers?
No. It connects over USB-A and works with a standard Windows layout, including Cut, Copy, Paste hotkeys, multimedia keys, and an embedded numeric 10-key. No drivers or special software required.
Is this the Mac version?
No. The KB820PB-US is the PC model with a standard Windows layout. KINESIS sells a separate Mac variant, so check the product listing to confirm you are ordering the right one.
Key Features
- AWARD-WINNING SPLIT DESIGN: Unlike fixed ergonomic keyboards, the Freestyle2 allows you to rotate and separate the key modules up to 9" to achieve natural hand, wrist and forearm positions for your specific body type and preferences.
- ADJUSTABLE TENTING: The Kinesis KB820 model keyboard is pre-assembled with the popular VIP3 tenting accessory which enables 5, 10, or 15 degrees of tenting with integrated cushioned palm supports to keep forearms neutral and wrists supports for an optimal typing posture.
- STANDARD WINDOWS LAYOUT: The Freestyle2 for PC features a standard Windows layout with hotkeys like Cut, Copy, Paste, multimedia keys, and an embedded numeric 10-key to boost your productivity. No software or special drivers required.
- LOW-FORCE KEY SWITCHES: The Freestyle2 uses a custom membrane key switch that features a low-activation force and tactile feedback to reduce finger fatigue, impact and strain.
- WHAT'S IN THE BOX: Freestyle2 keyboard with a standard Windows Layout and the VIP3 tenting accessory and palm supports pre-installed onto the keyboard for maximum convenience, adhesive cushioned palm pads, detachable pivot tether for adjustable splay, and Quick Start Guide.
Full Specifications
| Brand | KINESIS |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Style | PC Layout |
| Model Name | Freestyle2 for PC with VIP3 Lifters Pre-Installed |
| Style Name | PC Layout |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Switch Type | Membrane |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Model Number | KB820PB-US |
| Power Source | USB Powered |
| Compatibility | PC, Switch |
| Series Number | 820 |
| Built-In Media | adhesive cushioned palm pads, detachable pivot tether, 2 x Ergonomic Keycaps |
| Number of Keys | 94 |
| Button Quantity | 94 |
| Keyboard Layout | QWERTY |
| Mfr Part Number | KB820PB-US |
| Special Feature | Ergonomic |
| Antenna Location | Office |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
Ready to buy?
KINESIS Freestyle2 USB-A Ergonomic Keyboard w/ VIP3 Lifters for PC (9" Separation) (KB820PB-US) is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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